Abstract

Description

DoomRL follows the relatively new idea of a Coffeebreak roguelike - it is intended to be simple, fast and furious. Something that you can play from time to time without much need to concentrate.

There are several simplifications:

there is only one "dungeon" of 24 floors (although "secret levels" add to this)

inventory size is limited to 19 slots

there are only four equipment slots: two weapon slots, armor, and boots

there can be only one item per level square

All levels are the size of one screen

Few character traits -- all attributes depend on selection of special traits from a limited group

Features

DoomRL version 0.9.8 introduced something novel into the roguelike genre - full modern sound support (using features like stereo and distance effects) and music - both taken from the original Doom by ID Software. Other features worth noting:

simple interface

balanced traits

fast-paced gameplay

several special levels

25 levels including a final showdown with the Cyberdemon and two hidden bosses

several difficulty levels

several challenge modes

progress tracking, rating your ability as a player over multiple game sessions

a secret ending

Recent developments

As of version 0.9.9.4, released on September 1 of 2011, introduced some new features to the game. Most notably, players are now able to choose between three character classes described as the hardy Marine, the nimble Scout, and the smart Technician. Each class has advantages and perks, most relating to gameplay strategy.